Richard D. "Dick" Bernhardt, 78, Master Welder

He was born February 19, 1927 in Lorain He was a life long resident.

Mr. Bernhardt retired as a master welder for National Aeronautical and Space Administration Louis Research Center, Cleveland in 1988. He worked there for 25 years. He also worked for American Shipbuilding Company, Lorain, and Lorain-Cuyahoga Works of U. S. Steel, Lorain.

He served in the Army as an official photographer during the Korean War.

Mr. Bernhardt's father taught him to weld at the age of 11. He repaired motors and other items that were deemed unrepairable. He also sculpted with his welder making figurines and other artwork. He collected rocks and minerals and along with his wife participated in Lapidary Shows. He built and raced his own cars. He was also a licensed private pilot.

Among the survivors are his wife 32 years Gerri Bernhardt of Lorain; sons Robert A. Bernhardt of Palmetto, Florida and James R. Bernhardt of Lorain' and 5 Grandchildren

He was preceded in death by his parents De Bret and Margaret (nee Hill) Bernhardt, sons Brian D, Bernhardt in 2001 and 3 others in infancy.

A memorial service will be announced later.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Walter A. Frey Funeral Home, 700 West Erie Avenue, Lorain, Ohio.